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First Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

Phreesia

Director, Market Development

The first pilot client is identified. The work now is to take this offering to market, scale it, prove the commercial model with the first pharma partners, and build the playbook that lets the ...

Tradewind

Pilot - PC-12 First Officer

West Harrison, NY · On-site

$450/day

FAA First Class Medical * FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Airplane Single-Engine Land (ASEL) * FAA Instrument Rating * FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit Experience & Professional ...

Cintas

Pilot

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Requisition Number: 229954 The Pilot is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of ... Regular Schedule: Full Time Shift: 1st Shift

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

Pilot

Fort Wayne, IN

Steel Dynamics puts employees first with a robust benefits package. We're also committed to the ... The Second-in-Command reports functionally to the Pilot-in-Command during the assigned flight and ...

Skyfire | AI

Drone Pilot

Decatur, AL · On-site

$25/hr

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) for Public Safety Drone as First Responder (DFR) Operations. NOTE: APPLICANTS MUST BE CURRENT FAA PART 107 CERTIFIED WITH A MINIMUM OF 50 FLIGHT HOURS AT TIME OF ...

New

Cintas

Pilot

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Requisition Number: 229954 The Pilot is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of ... Regular Schedule: Full Time Shift: 1st Shift

Still Bright

Pilot Manager

Kenilworth, NJ · On-site

$114.30 - $139.70/hr

Definition of Success In the first 12 months, success looks like: a pilot that runs planned campaigns safely, on schedule, and with high availability; a trained and reliable technician team ...

Port City Air

Pilot

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated, professional pilot who is comfortable operating PIC in a ... First-Class Medical Certificate - Must hold a current U.S. Passport with unrestricted travel ...

Port City Air

Pilot

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated,professional pilot who is comfortable operating PIC in a ... First-Class Medical Certificate - Must hold a current U.S. Passport with unrestricted travel ...

Johnson Development

Corporate Pilot

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

The successful applicant will work alongside a first-class team supporting an exceptional company ... The Corporate Pilot reports to the Chief Pilot or to the Director of Aviation in the Chief Pilot ...

Heliservice USA

Chief Pilot

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$145 - $200/hr

HSUSA is the nation's leader in offshore wind support as the first and only dedicated U.S. operator in the sector, a recognized leader in helicopter harbor pilot transfers, and the world leader in ...

RAVN Aerospace

Pilot (FT)

San Antonio, TX · On-site

A humble, team-first leadership style and a commitment to continuous learning. * Ability to solve ... Chief Pilot. * Director of Flight Operations. * Program Manager. * Site Lead. * Business ...

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First Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do first pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for first pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first pilot?

First Pilots, also known as captains, are the lead pilots responsible for commanding an aircraft during flights. They oversee all aspects of flight operations, including navigation, communication with air traffic control, and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. First Pilots have the highest authority on the aircraft and make critical decisions, especially in emergency situations. They are required to have extensive flying experience, advanced training, and must hold an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Their leadership and expertise are essential for the safe and efficient operation of commercial and cargo flights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first pilot?

To thrive as a First Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), strong aeronautical knowledge, and extensive flight experience. Familiarity with advanced avionics, flight management systems, and regulatory compliance tools is essential. Excellent decision-making, situational awareness, and communication skills set top pilots apart in the cockpit. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, efficient flight operations, and effective teamwork in high-pressure environments.

What are some common challenges first pilots face during long-haul flights, and how are these managed on the job?

First Pilots on long-haul flights often face challenges such as fatigue management, maintaining situational awareness over extended periods, and adapting to rapidly changing weather or air traffic conditions. These are managed through regulated rest periods, effective crew resource management, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Collaboration with co-pilots, cabin crew, and air traffic controllers is essential to ensure safe and efficient operations throughout the flight. Continuous training and simulation exercises also help First Pilots stay prepared for unexpected situations.

What is the difference between First Pilot vs Co-Pilot?

AspectFirst PilotCo-Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificateCommercial Pilot License (CPL), often with additional type ratings
Work EnvironmentLeads flight operations, makes critical decisions, oversees crewAssists the First Pilot, manages navigation and communication
ResponsibilitiesOverall flight command, safety, and decision-makingSupports the First Pilot, handles specific flight tasks

The First Pilot is the primary authority during flights, responsible for safety and decision-making, while the Co-Pilot assists and supports the First Pilot in operating the aircraft. Both roles require similar certifications, but the First Pilot holds the lead position in flight operations.

What first pilot jobs are best for beginners?

Entry-level pilot jobs suitable for beginners include flight instructor, banner tow pilot, and aerial survey pilot, which often require a private pilot certificate and some flight hours. These roles provide practical experience and help build hours toward commercial pilot certification, with a focus on safety, communication, and aircraft handling skills.
More about First Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for First Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most First Pilot job openings:

What states have the most First Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching First Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for First Pilot jobs are:

First Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

First Officer Pilot

SkyWest Airlines

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

SkyWest Airlines rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 26 rated airlines

Job description


Primary Job Duties

To be considered for a pilot position, you must: 

Be at least 21 years of age 
Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings
English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate
Hold a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate
Be a U.S. citizen or able to show proof of right to work in the U.S. 
Hold FCC Radiotelephone Operator's Permit.
Have a current Passport --or other travel documents enabling the bearer to freely exit and re-enter the U.S. (multiple reentry status) and be legally eligible to work in the U.S. (possess proper working documents).
Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Be within three months of the minimum hour requirements detailed below

ATP Written Requirement: 

SkyWest will provide the means to complete a SkyWest-approved CTP course for those who complete an application and successfully pass the pilot interview. 
 

Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment.  

SkyWest Minimum Requirements When Counting Helicopter or Glider Time
SkyWest Airlines recognizes the skills common to helicopter and glider flying. SkyWest will accept helo/glider time as part of an applicant's total time as long as they have a minimum of 250 PIC hours of fixed wing.

Domiciles

Arizona:  Phoenix, Tucson

California:  Fresno, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, San Francisco

Colorado: Colorado Springs, Denver
Georgia: Atlanta

Idaho: Boise

Illinois: Chicago

Minnesota: Minneapolis/St. Paul

Michigan: Detroit

Oregon: Portland

Texas: Austin, Dallas, Houston

Utah: Salt Lake City

Washington: Seattle

Wisconsin: Milwaukee


Minimum Requirements
  • Assist the Pilot- in- Command (PIC) in conducting the flight safely and efficiently
  • Assist the PIC and/or passenger service personnel as needed to ensure a prompt departure
  • Assist or relieve the PIC in manipulation of the flight controls of an aircraft while underway, including taxiing, takeoff and landing of such aircraft

Physical and Other Requirements
  • Must have a First Class Medical
  • Must be willing to fly assigned schedule based on pilot bidding seniority; including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
  • To apply, please complete the on-line application (qualified applicants will be contacted)
Qualifications:

To be considered for a pilot position, you must: 

Be at least 21 years of age 
Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings
English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate
Hold a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate
Be a U.S. citizen or able to show proof of right to work in the U.S. 
Hold FCC Radiotelephone Operator's Permit.
Have a current Passport --or other travel documents enabling the bearer to freely exit and re-enter the U.S. (multiple reentry status) and be legally eligible to work in the U.S. (possess proper working documents).
Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Be within three months of the minimum hour requirements detailed below

ATP Written Requirement: 

SkyWest will provide the means to complete a SkyWest-approved CTP course for those who complete an application and successfully pass the pilot interview. 
 

Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment.  

SkyWest Minimum Requirements When Counting Helicopter or Glider Time
SkyWest Airlines recognizes the skills common to helicopter and glider flying. SkyWest will accept helo/glider time as part of an applicant's total time as long as they have a minimum of 250 PIC hours of fixed wing.

Domiciles

Arizona:  Phoenix, Tucson

California:  Fresno, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, San Francisco

Colorado: Colorado Springs, Denver
Georgia: Atlanta

Idaho: Boise

Illinois: Chicago

Minnesota: Minneapolis/St. Paul

Michigan: Detroit

Oregon: Portland

Texas: Austin, Dallas, Houston

Utah: Salt Lake City

Washington: Seattle

Wisconsin: Milwaukee

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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